Berlin Marathon Pumps Nearly $510 Million Into the Local Economy—Here’s How the Numbers Break Down

The BMW Berlin Marathon, set for Sunday, September 28, 2025, isn’t just a premier event for world-class athletes—it’s one of the biggest economic powerhouses in distance running.

A new independent study presented this week by Nielsen Sports found that the Berlin Marathon generated a total economic impact of €469.4 million, or approximately $509 million USD. That includes €142.7 million ($155 million USD) in direct spending by participants, visitors, and organizers, and €326.7 million ($354 million USD) in indirect economic activity such as hotels, restaurants, and retail.

Where the Money Comes From

One key revenue stream is the entry fees paid by runners. With more than 47,000 participants, and an average fee of around €145 ($157 USD), that alone brings in an estimated €6.8 million ($7.4 million USD).

On the elite side, Berlin pays out competitive prize money, bonuses, and appearance fees. While exact figures aren’t published, estimates suggest:

• Prize Money: Around $500,000 USD total, including winners and top-10 finishers.

• Bonuses: Additional six-figure performance bonuses for times under certain marks (e.g. sub-2:03 or sub-2:20).

• Appearance Fees: Elite runners, especially past champions or potential record-breakers, can earn $50,000–$100,000 USD or more just to show up.

Berlin’s Fast Course Is Also a Fast Investment

Berlin is known as the world record capital, having hosted 12 world records since 2003. That prestige, paired with a world-class event experience, keeps the race fully subscribed year after year.

Berlin’s mayor Kai Wegner and other city and sports officials were on hand this week to confirm what many already knew: the Berlin Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a multi-million dollar economic catalystfor the city.

As race day approaches, the energy is building. Whether you’re chasing a PB or just soaking in the electric atmosphere, one thing is clear—Berlin delivers, on the roads and in the numbers.

posted Saturday July 12th
by Boris Baron